WITH the autumn and winter seasons approaching, a Cornish charity is asking all coastal residents and visitors to take into consideration the steps in how to deal with stranded seals and pups — with many having washed up in the Bude area in the past.

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary have worked closely with Widemouth Task Force, led by local man Ado Shorland, in the past, with many seals and pups having washed up in the area around this time of the year.

The sanctuary is now asking people in coastal areas to take note of their top tips when finding a seal on a beach.

Keeping a distance from the animal is vital, ensuring interference is prevented. If a pup has a white, fluffy coat, it still needs its mother, who will have spotted people long before they have spotted her and would hopefully be watching from a safe distance out at sea.

A mother will only return to feed her pup if she thinks it is safe to do so. People are also advised to not touch the pup, as it is a wild animal with sharp teeth.

A mother also may reject her pup if it smells of a person, so try to keep out of sight.

Seals should also not be forced back into the sea. A white coated pup spend most of its time out of the water, and all seals haul out onto land to rest, digest and socialise throughout the year.

People can take a good look from a distance, and if the pup appears to be alone, thin, injured or unwell, it may need help.

Anyone who spots a seal or pup in distress is urged to call the Cornish Seal Sanctuary on 01326 221361, or the British Divers Marine Life Rescue on 01825 765 546, giving an accurate location.